Evolution / Genetics / Biology

1,500 yr-old altar for human sacrifices found in Peru

A group of Peruvian archaeologists found a 1,500-year-old altar for human sacrifices on the top of a hill in the northern region of La Libertad, the daily El Comercio reported Tuesday.

The structure is located 1,000 meters (3,250 feet) high on Campana Hill [Credit: EFE]

The structure is located 3,250 feet high on Campana Hill and was cut by the Moche culture into a rock at the site with three steps leading to a small platform.

"Many archaeologists identified in the Moche ceramic sculptures ... an ancient rite of sacrifice," said the head of the archaeological team, Regulo Franco. "Now, with this find, we're sure that what appeared on the ceramics was Campana Hill."

The experts also found in the area a small cave painting dating back 2,800 years, as well as ceramics and burials.

Percy Valladares, the president of the Association for the Rescue and Defense of Campana Hill, said that the site is in danger due to the lack of demarcation, people who come to the site and urban growth.

Microbiologist Carlos Quiroz says that 254 species of plants and 118 species of animals live on Campana Hill, the daily reported.